Grace Garden - Columbarium

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Most urban churches are limited by space, and burial within the churchyard is unavailable. The Woodlands UMC is able to continue this tradition with Grace Garden Columbarium, a memorial garden and resting place for the cremated remains of our loved ones. The columbarium is an endowment of The Woodlands UMC Foundation, and the grounds are lovingly maintained by our church. 320 niches are available for church members and their families. When it’s time for you and your family to make your final provisions, contact the Facilities Coordinator, Dana Spencer, at dspencer@twumc.org or 281.297.5930 for more information about Grace Garden Columbarium.

Pre-sale of niches for a new Columbarium wall begins August 27.

Inurnment price is $4500 per person until January 1, 2020. Pricing is per person, not per niche.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is a Columbarium?

The word “columbarium” comes from the Latin word “columbary” which is a structure for the nesting of doves - the dove being the symbol of God’s spirit and peace. The related word, columbarium, refers to a burial vault for the containment of urns holding cremated human remains.

Is cremation biblically sound?

Cremation is widely recognized as a theologically valid process for the deceased, and essentially is a hastening of the natural process that occurs following death. This ancient practice has particular relevance for us today, since burial near churches is less of an option. Cremation makes it possible to continue the tradition of granting a place for God’s children to “dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”

What are the benefits?

Families who choose cremation for their departed loved ones, rather than conventional burial, will find Grace Garden a wonderful choice. It’s dignified, convenient, and affordable. In addition, Grace Garden is very convenient for funeral ceremonies - funeral congregations can walk from the church to gather in the garden and visually take part in the inurnment service. Not only will the Memorial Garden be self-sustaining, but 100 percent of the proceeds from the purchase of each niche supports the many ministries of our church.

Who may use Grace Garden?

The garden is reserved exclusively for members of the church and their immediate families.

How is the property maintained?

The Columbarium is an endowment of The Foundation. The grounds are maintained under the perpetual care of our loving church family.